Quite true, the 2000 model was recalled many times. There were all the problems a new car can have and then some. Fortunately Ford is jumping on problems quickly now before they turn into catastrophes by issuing recalls on even small problems. What Dave an I are referring to is the general construction of the car has been improved, as you would expect from a more modern vehicle. Actually comparing them really isn't even fair since the Contour didn't get a real chance here. The Focus sells well and makes money, so Ford upgraded some of the tools used in the manufacturing process for 2002 to cover complaints about rattles and noise. There are no panels in my car that rattle, despite my audio setup helping to create them. There is also several layers of sound deadening added to further reduce noise. Even the hatchback, which had a huge rattle problem in 2000, has been fixed and no longer makes a sound. The Contour's unfortunately low sales forced Ford to cut corners and decontent. If it had sold well I'm sure it would have improved every year like the Focus has been able to Too bad most people don't realise what the Contour was

2003 Ford Focus ZX3 "Tarmac" http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2352003